On Tuesday in Bayfield County Court the latest chapter in the lodge's story came to a close when Newco—a Colorado–based private company—bought the property to the tune of $926,000.

Cable Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director James Bolen says the current condition of the lodge, and its future, has weighed heavily on the minds of the Cable Community.

"There's been a lot of work behind the scenes for the potential to address some of those issues. What remains to be seen is what this buyer is interested in doing, and where we go forward from here," said Bolen shortly after the Sheriff's auction. "I think everyone is anxious to find out."

Bolen says the role the lodge plays in the area's economy is significant.

The property itself is home to the trail systems that Bolen says are integral for upcoming events.

"The trail system that's there is unlike trails on any individual property around the country," said Bolen. "Obviously, there are some important events–the Fat Tire Festival, the American Birkebeiner–which take place on that facility. We want to make sure that the trails are protected as well."

American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Executive Director Ben Popp says having access to the lodge's 215 rooms has been pivotal for hosting the annual Nordic race in the past.

"Any time you bring 10,000 skiers, plus another 20 or 30,000 spectators to a small area like this, housing is of the utmost importance," said Popp, standing inside the Birkebeiner Hayward headquarters.

Popp says he's hopeful that communications with the new owners will be productive: "We look forward to working with the new owners, and putting on a great event for years to come."

And with four months to go before the 41st annual Birkebeiner, there's a lot of work to do.

Bolen also says the Chamber will be speaking with the new owners throughout the coming days to determine their plans.